The authorities wanted to find out why so many migrants from countries such as Iraq, Syria and Tunisia travelled to Cologne on New Year’s Eve.

Head of Cologne police station, Carsten Dubbers, said: “Cologne has a reputation of being a centre for celebration and events, and enjoys the highest appeal in this respect.”

A confidential report of the Federal Criminal Police Office described Cologne as a “magnet for North Africans”.

Cologne: Sex Attacks and Robberies
Tue, January 12, 2016

Thirty-one suspects, including 18 asylum seekers, are under investigation over offences including sexual assault and theft in Cologne on New Year's Eve. Far right protestors in Lepzig have rallied against refugees and German chancellor Angela Merkel.

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Protestors in Lepzig rally after over 100 women were sexually assualted on New Year's Eve